The teams from Colten Care’s Amberwood House and the Royal British Legion’s Ferndown Club.

An eight-strong team from Colten Care’s Amberwood House, some in their 80’s, beat a RBL Ferndown team by 106 points to 96 in a friendly match.

The event proved such a success that monthly matches are now planned between the two sides as part of a wider long-term community partnership.

Zahra Manovi, Amberwood House Activity Organiser, said: “Our residents absolutely loved the skittles match. They were talking about it for days after the event.

“It was a tremendous fun and the Royal British Legion were fantastic hosts. We look forward to many return visits.”

The players on the Amberwood House team included Sam Tyldesley, 87, who played skittles in his younger days.

“It’s been brilliant. I’ve so enjoyed it,” he said.

Michael Deane, Chairman of Ferndown Royal British Legion Club, said: “It was a huge success and the residents seemed to thoroughly enjoy every moment.

“My team were humbled by the stories they heard from the residents and we look forward to welcoming them back in coming months.”

The new partnership between the Legion and Colten Care will see Amberwood House in Ferndown and sister homes Brook View, in West Moors, and Fernhill in Longham, hosting Legion social and ceremonial events in-house.

Residents, some of whom are service veterans, will also be able to attend get-togethers, tea dances, quizzes and other regular events at RBL’s Ferndown club.